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College Station Utilities Meeting and Training Facility

Located on the Southwest side of College Station, this multifunctional facility not only serves as a public gathering and meeting space, but is also as a training facility for city staff. In the event of an emergency, this building is also designed to serve as a public shelter. The centralized plan is divided into four quads so that each section may perform an individual function. The facilities within include: a computer training room, public auditorium with stadium seating, a conference room, an assembly room and a full service kitchen. The rear of the building opens to a large plaza that creates a warm and inviting social gathering space. The exterior of the building is accented by stone, brick and natural slate.

Innovative technology systems and green building techniques were incorporated into the facility to emphasize an eco-friendly building for College Station Utilities. Large overhangs and solar shading devices protect the building from direct sunlight, thus reducing heat gain. Through the use of rainwater harvesting, water for site irrigation is collected into a cistern. Energy costs are further minimized through natural day lighting and solar water heaters.